While the average person tends to think of laser hair removal as "zapping" the unwanted hairs with a laser beam, there is far more to it than meets the eye. In fact, the entire process is a medical procedure that should be performed by a medical professional who has the training and understands the risks involved with this particular procedure such as Dr. Sonny O.

Before Your Treatment

If you are planning to come into the office for laser hair removal, you will need to limit or stop any other form of hair removal in the area you plan to have laser removal done. This includes plucking, waxing, or electrolysis for approximately six full weeks. The reason for this is simple. These forms of hair removal not only remove the hairs but also temporarily remove the roots of the hairs. These are the same roots the laser hair removal treatment targets. If they are not present, then the laser has nothing to target and will be completely ineffective.

Stay Out of the Sun

No matter how much you enjoy going out in the sun, you need to avoid the sun as much as possible for the six weeks prior to your laser hair removal treatment as well as for the first six weeks after the treatment. Overexposure to the sun can actually render the laser hair removal treatment less effective. It can also lead to a number of complications after your treatment. At the same time, you should also avoid any form of tanning solution, spray, or the tanning booth for the same reasons.

Shave as Directed

One or two days before your appointment, you should shave the area to be treated. This will ensure that the hair follicles will still be visible, making it easier for the doctor to see what he is doing. However, you do not want the hairs to be too long as this can cause the treatment to be painful, something no one wants to deal with.